So, what’s 2017 been like? Well, about this big as James Stewart might have said in that dark example of Film Noir that bizarrely seems to everyone’s favourite feel good Christmas movie … And on the mystery front? Well … I managed to participate in both the Golden and Silver Vintage Mystery Challenges set by Bev at My Reader’s Block as well as Todd Mason’s Tuesday’s Overlooked Film meme and Patti Abbott’s Friday’s Forgotten Book celebration over at Pattinase – special thanks to all of these fine folks for looking after us. But who else has helped make this a memorable year?

I’ve just learned (dunno how I missed it earlier) that Il Trumpe is boasting he’s managed to make “everyone” say “Merry Christmas” this year. Normally, as an atheist, I merrily say “Merry Christmas” — in the same way that I happily say “Happy Hanukkah” to Jewish friends, etc. — because who exactly gives a flying unmentionable at a rolling donut over the religious origins of an expression of goodwill and friendship?

I still tend to see him in a continuum…he hasn’t yet been able to kill as many people as Dick Cheney, but he is certainly trying to sprint to depriving as many of public support as either Reagan or Bill Clinton…and a happier new year, even if we find ourselves Fedora-less…(reconsider, sir).

Never have I felt more like a member of a community, Sergio, or of a fine old club, where the members walk in whispers, and the stuffy old Major pontificates endlessly about bagging elephants in India, and Lord Abercrombie lolls in his favorite leather armchair, his head thrown back, an empty snifter of brandy at his side, from which emanates a whiff of bitter almonds . . .

In other words, I’m honored to be included. I’ll try to be more industrious in 2018, as much by reading what this illustrious company has to say as with my own blathering, and I hope to match wits with you all for years to come.

The merriest of seasons to you, Sergio, and the happiest of New Years!

Gee whiz, Sergio, thanks for all the salutes above. Happy Trails and smooth sailing (if I am permitted a mixed metaphor) as 2018 approaches these stormy seas of Life. Like I said before, I sure am gonna miss you. You are truly one of the rare birds flying out there in the blogosphere. Though I’ve only been typing back and forth these past seven years sure felt like I was making regular visits to a local bar and talking movies and books and all the rest of it with you and the gang. As they used to say in old British movies, “Here’s to absent friends!” Best of everything to you, mate!